Port Hills Fire Public Update – Sunday 26 February
Media Update – 1.50 pm
Dyers Pass Road cordons
A team is out the field this afternoon reviewing the Dyers Pass Road cordons, as reopening this key route is a high priority. We are getting a lot of queries about when Dyers Pass Road will open to the public and recognise the significance of this road. We will update you if the cordon situation changes.
At this stage three hard cordons remain on Dyers Pass Road. One is at the bottom where it meets Governors Bay Road, however residents who live on the section up to the hairpin bend about halfway up to the Sign of the Kiwi are permitted access to their properties. Dyers Pass Road is closed from this hairpin bend to the entrance of Victoria Park due to the fire risk and safety issues.
Other cordons
There are 11 cordons in total. While cordons at Worsleys Road, Kennedys Bush Road, Hoon Hay Valley Road and Dyers Pass Road have been relaxed, this is for residents only. There is still no access for members of the public. Access for tradespeople to repair damaged houses is being arranged.
Cordons are also being maintained at the entrance to Halswell Quarry during air operations to ensure public safety.
We are reminding people to resist the temptation to come and have a look around the area, this includes mountain bikers and runners. The area remains an operational fire zone with cordons still in place.
Fire behaviour modelling indicates the chance of another outbreak is low but if it did happen, significant damage could still occur.
Fire crews
A total of 25 fire crews, with around 150 firefighters on the ground.
An infrared scan from the air this morning showed continuing deep-seated activity across the area. There is a continuing overall reduction in hot spots – but we are still seeing a number of areas where hot spots remain. The crews are focusing on these. Drones are being used during nightshifts and early mornings for this thermal imaging.

Heavy machinery is now being used for the ongoing removal of dangerous trees.

Weather

High humidity and lower temperatures are helping with suppressing the fire, and the today’s rain is welcome.

© Scoop Media